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Barge Worker Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Branch Engineer

Monroe, MI · On-site

... barge roll-on and barge roll-off projects. * Use engineering software such as AutoCAD, Inventor ... This could be working from the office or at the job site when required. * Design custom lifting or ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Branch Engineer

Monroe, MI · On-site

... barge roll-on and barge roll-off projects. * Use engineering software such as AutoCAD, Inventor ... This could be working from the office or at the job site when required. * Design custom lifting or ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Branch Engineer

Monroe, MI · On-site

... barge roll-on and barge roll-off projects. * Use engineering software such as AutoCAD, Inventor ... This could be working from the office or at the job site when required. * Design custom lifting or ...

All JobsBarge Worker JobsBarge Worker Jobs in Michigan

Barge Worker information

See Michigan salary details

$29

$32

$34

How much do barge worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for barge worker in Michigan is $32.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.01 and $33.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a barge worker?

Barge workers are individuals who perform essential tasks on barges, which are flat-bottomed boats used to transport goods and materials on rivers and canals. Their duties can include loading and unloading cargo, securing items, maintaining equipment, and assisting with navigation. Barge workers often work long hours in varying weather conditions and must adhere to safety protocols. The job typically requires physical strength, attention to detail, and teamwork. Many barge workers are employed in industries such as shipping, construction, and oil and gas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a barge worker?

To thrive as a Barge Worker, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety equipment, deck machinery, and sometimes certifications like a TWIC card or OSHA training are commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe cargo handling, efficient operations, and accident prevention on the water.

What are some typical challenges faced by barge workers during shifts, and how are they addressed?

Barge workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy equipment, and maintaining safety on sometimes unstable surfaces. To address these issues, crews follow strict safety protocols, receive comprehensive training, and use specialized equipment to minimize risks. Team communication is essential, as barge workers coordinate closely to ensure tasks like loading, unloading, and securing cargo are performed safely and efficiently. Regular safety meetings and ongoing skills development also help workers adapt to changing conditions and responsibilities.

What is the difference between Barge Worker vs Deckhand?

AspectBarge WorkerDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, OSHASTCW Basic Safety, OSHA
Work EnvironmentOn barges, waterways, docksOn ships, boats, docks
Job DutiesLoading/unloading, maintenance, safetyCleaning, assisting navigation, maintenance
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, transportationMaritime, shipping, transportation

Both Barge Workers and Deckhands work in maritime environments, often holding similar certifications like STCW and OSHA. Barge Workers typically focus on loading, unloading, and maintaining barges on waterways, while Deckhands assist with ship operations, navigation, and general maintenance on vessels. Despite differences in specific duties, their roles overlap in safety protocols and maritime industry employment.

How do I get a job on a barge?

To get a job as a barge worker, you typically need a valid maritime or safety certification such as OSHA or STCW, and relevant experience in maritime or industrial environments. Applying through maritime companies, labor unions, or job boards that specialize in industrial or maritime work can help you find opportunities. Physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging conditions are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Barge Worker jobs in MI?

For Barge Worker jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Barge Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Barge Worker job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,407 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Branch Engineer

Monroe, MI • On-site

Barnhart Crane & Rigging
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 176 rated vehicle equipment hire

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Learn new skills

Learn more about Barnhart Crane & Riggingexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Branch Engineer is expected to support all areas of engineering (sales, design, and project) with the majority of time spent focused on project engineering. This role involves a combination of engineering expertise, project coordination, and hands-on support to ensure successful project outcomes.

Description:

  • Develop crane layouts and rigging drawings for lift plans using Barnhart's vast array of custom lifting tools.
  • Create layout drawings for heavy machinery moving projects utilizing gantries, slide systems, modular trailers, lift & hoist towers, and other custom Barnhart tools.
  • Create drawings for heavy transportation projects using modular trailers for over-the-road hauling, on-site hauling, barge roll-on and barge roll-off projects.
  • Use engineering software such as AutoCAD, Inventor, Mathcad, RISA, and Barnhart calculation spreadsheets to develop solutions to heavy lift and heavy transport projects.
  • Assist Sales Personnel by performing field walk-down assessments of jobs to develop equipment lists, identify potential issues, and create technical sketches for project bids.
  • Provide technical support to Project Managers and Superintendents on job sites as issues arise requiring changes to project plans. This could be working from the office or at the job site when required.
  • Design custom lifting or support tools for job specific needs (dependent on project) using engineering standards such as the AISC Steel Construction Manual, ASME Design of Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices, and other industry standards.
  • Function as field technical liaison for complex projects as a risk manager or performing safety & quality evaluations.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Civil or Mechanical Degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA
  • AutoCAD
  • Communication Skills
  • MS Excel
  • MS PowerPoint
  • MS Word
  • Mathematical Skills
  • Reasoning Ability

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field from an ABET accredited 4-year university with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Competitive salary
  • Bonus program that pays for performance
  • 401K contributions matched up to 10% of pay
  • Benefits Package including medical, dental, vision, short & long-term disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Barnhart CARES family care and community service opportunities

PURPOSE - Barnhart is built on a strong foundation of serving others. The fruit of our labor is used to grow the company, care for our employees, and serve those in our communities and around the world.

MINDS OVER MATTER - Barnhart has built a nationwide reputation for solving problems. We specialize in the lifting, heavy-rigging, and heavy transport of major components used in American industry.

NETWORK - Barnhart has built teams that form one of our industry's strongest networks of talent and resources with over 60 branch locations across the U.S. working together to serve our customers. This growing network offers our team members constant opportunity for career growth and professional development.

CULTURE - Barnhart has a strong team culture -- the "One TEAM." We are looking for smart, hard-working people who strive for excellence in their work and appreciate collaboration. Join a team that values Safety, Servant Leadership, Quality Service, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Fairness, and Profit with a Purpose.

EOE/AA Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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